There are Free Lunches Statement of Intentions

There are Free Lunches: Behavioral Clues to Live Happy in the Economic World is a blog that intends to present updated and relevant information about the "hidden" and only recently uncovered dimensions of the economic science: the behavioral factors. With this blog we intend to promote in Europe and in the rest of the World, the top research articles and perspectives on behavioral economics, decision making, consumer behavior, and general behavioral science. We aim to be followed by journalists, academics, managers, civil servants, and everyone who wishes to improve their daily interaction with the economic world and consequently, their lives' happiness.

Sunday, 6 May 2012

O2 #3 The Secret to Grace Under Pressure (via TIME)

The best way to psych yourself up for a test or
presentation is to make it seem insignificant. Here's how:

How do you gear yourself up for a big test, an important presentation, or any
other high-pressure situation? Maybe your internal monologue goes something like
this: “OK, this is really important. A lot is riding on this. Don’t screw this
up. How well I do on this really matters.” Reminding yourself of the high stakes
makes intuitive sense as a motivational strategy—but it will actually impede
your performance. Instead of spurring you to new heights, it’s likely to
increase anxiety and undermine your confidence. Research shows that reminding
yourself how unimportant the event is in the big scheme of things is a
better tactic, and psychologists have come up with a variety of ingenious ways
to help us do so.